22 October 2008

Podcast - Stories of Poverty in the 1st Person - E20, Tatum

One of several native women who participated in the project, Tatum has proven herself to be a fierce fighter against injustice: of that done to her as a child, woman and Indian, and to others in similar circumstances. As with two other of the storytellers, Tatum took her abuser to court. Also like them, she paid harshly for doing the right thing.

Beyond what has become the dishearteningly common tale of childhood sexual abuse, there are the abuses against native culture and identity.

I lived in Vancouver when I was 19, 20, 21…. My whole life, I think that’s what’s a live and so burning anger. We lost our language and every other culture is out there yakking their language – on public buses and on public streets. Oooh, that used to burn me in Vancouver when I was young! I used to be so angry when I heard another nationality’s voice in their own language. I think I still am. Then I have to be a Canadian citizen and you’re telling me I have to know French?!?!

Discrimination also remains alive and thriving in our community.

[As someone who doesn’t look like the stereotypical Indian,] I never felt discrimination until I had this ex in my life…. Renting in Victoria … there was so much discrimination. They would give the place to me when he was working… Then I’d bring my Indian husband. BAM! We don’t have a place anymore. Two hours ago I had it! No problem, no question. Then they see this Indian… He was in work clothes and everything!

Two more stories remain - Vanessa and Waneta. They will be followed by one podcast each for the two project reports.

Chrystal Ocean: Social libertarian; democratic reformer; passionate activist for housing reform, especially for changes in property laws to be more inclusive of housing alternatives; atheist; founder of a group run by and for women in poverty, author of several blogs and a book. Contact | Complete profile

Daphne Moldowin: I have chosen a minimalist lifestyle, am a raw food vegan and an anti-capitalist. For me, less means more freedom: to rage against the machine and to speak my mind. I champion others who have small voices. Complete profile